Airmar PB100 WeatherStation User manual

Record the serial number found on the
WeatherStation®instrument.
Serial No._________________________
Date of Purchase___________________
WeatherStation®Instrument
Owner’s Guide
Models: PB100, PB150
17-426-02 r02 04/07/08

Copyright © 2007, 2008 Airmar Technology Corp. All rights reserved.

3
Table of Contents
Introduction......................................................................................4
Safety Instructions........................................................................... 5
Adding External Sensors................................................................. 6
Choosing the Mounting Location................................................... 7
Tools & Materials............................................................................ 8
Installing.......................................................................................... 9
Cable Routing & Connecting........................................................ 12
Connecting to a Converter............................................................ 12
Connecting to a Combiner............................................................ 14
Connecting to an NMEA 0183 Display....................................... 24
Maintenance & Updates................................................................ 26
Where to Purchase Parts............................................................... 26
Troubleshooting............................................................................. 27
Appendix A—How the WeatherStation Instrument Works......... 29
Appendix B—Technical Information............................................ 35
Acronyms & Glossary................................................................... 36

4
Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the Airmar’s ultrasonic WeatherStation®instrument.
This exciting product is actually six different sensors in a single unit—without any
moving parts. The compact housing is waterproof with a single removable cable.
Data is output in digital NMEA 0183 format.
Functions of the WeatherStation Instrument
• Apparent wind speed
• Apparent wind direction
• Magnetic compass heading
• Air temperature
• Wind chill temperature
• Angle of vessel pitch
• Angle of vessel roll
• Barometric pressure
• Global Positioning System (GPS)
• Vessel speed over ground (SOG)
• Vessel course over ground (COG)
• True wind speed
• True wind direction
• Heading relative to true north
• True wind chill temperature
• True wind speed relative to water—requires speed-through-water input
IMPORTANT: Please read the Owner’s Guide completely
before proceeding with the installation.

5
Safety Instructions
WARNING: Navigation Aid Only
The WeatherStation instrument is only an aid to navigation and should never be
solely relied upon. It is not a replacement for traditional navigation aids and
techniques. Only official government charts contain all the information needed for
safe navigation.
WARNING: Correct Installation Important
The WeatherStation instrument must be installed and operated according to the
instructions in this owners guide. Failure to do so could result in poor product
performance, personal injury, and/or damage to the boat.
WARNING: Electrical Safety
The power supply voltage must be 12 VDC (±3VDC). Any other voltage may
damage the WeatherStation instrument and/or result in fire, causing personal
injury and/or damage to the boat.
WARNING: Installation Safety
Always wear safety goggles and a dust mask when installing to avoid personal injury.
CAUTION:Disassembly
Do not disassemble the sensor. Removing the screws from the WeatherStation
instrument will damage the waterproof seal, thus voiding the warranty.
IMPORTANT: Compass Safe Distance
The compass safe distance for standard and steering compasses is 0.30m (1').
Observe this distance to prevent interference to a magnetic compass.
IMPORTANT: Battery
Use a separate battery from the engine-start battery to supply power to the
WeatherStation instrument. Voltage drops may cause the unit to lose information
and/or change operating mode.
WARNING
Do not use the WeatherStation instrument for your
primary navigational device. The two-axis compass
can give inaccurate readings when the vessel is
pitching and rolling.

6
Adding External Sensors
The WeatherStation instrument can receive data from external sensors when they
are connected through an optional Combiner. This device processes additional
received data and transmits it to the WeatherStation instrument for use in true
wind calculations. The WeatherStation instrument will automatically detect
whether these sensors are internal, external, or not available at all. Simply
connect the sensor(s) to the Combiner or other NMEA 0183 repeater hardware.
The data provided by an additional sensor(s) such as heading or water depth can
also be seen on displays connected to the Combiner.
•GPS—An external NMEA 0183 GPS can be connected instead of or in addition
to the internal GPS. The WeatherStation instrument gives priority to valid
external GPS data when available.
•Compass—If an external electronic compass is installed and working, this
external compass data will override the WeatherStation compass.
•Speed-through-water sensor—An external speed sensor with NMEA 0183
output can be installed, such as an Airmar Smart™ Sensor. Airmar
recommends installing the DST800V to receive water depth, boat speed, and
water temperature data.
Improve Course-Over-Ground and
True Wind Readings
The WeatherStation instrument incorporates a two-axis
compass. Significant errors can occur in the heading when
the vessel is pitching and rolling. If there is an error in the
heading, there also will be a corresponding error in the true
wind direction.
The True Wind error can be minimized or eliminated by
using Course-Over-Ground instead of the internal compass
to make calculations. (COG heading data is obtained from
the GPS.) For instructions, go to “Advanced Setup”, “True
Wind Options” in the WeatherCaster program.
Accuracy can also be improved with the addition of an
external three-axis compass. This external compass data
will override the WeatherStation compass. Install a
compass using an Airmar Combiner. Instructions are
located in the section, “Connecting to a Combiner”.

7
Choosing the Mounting Location
For accurate readings and a reliable GPS signal, selecting the best location for
the WeatherStation instrument is very important. Easy access and appearance
should be secondary considerations. Since each installation is unique, the best
separation distances from other equipment on the boat will vary depending on the
particular equipment and how it is configured. Choose a location that balances the
requirements below (see Figure 1).
• The WeatherStation instrument must be mounted in “clear air”—away from
obstructions in any direction that will interfere with air flowing through the unit. If
there is an obstruction, be sure to mount the WeatherStation instrument at least
2m (6') away. On land, avoid roof tops, chimneys, trees, etc.
• If possible, mount the WeatherStation instrument higher than any other object.
Mount it a minimum of 500mm (20") above the surrounding surfaces. (Note that the
higher the WeatherStation instrument is mounted, the less accurate the pitch and
roll readings will be.)
• Because the WeatherStation instrument has an electronic compass, it should
be at least 1m (3') away from any on-board radar equipment or other strong
magnetic fields from equipment such as radio transmitters, boat engines,
generators, etc.
• Because the WeatherStation instrument has a GPS, it must be lower than any
on-board INMARSAT communications antenna.
• Because the WeatherStation instrument has a GPS, be sure it is as far as
possible from high-powered transmitting antennas to avoid mutual interference.
• Because the WeatherStation instrument has a GPS, check for any
electromagnetic shading. That is, any obstructions from other vessels or
shoreline buildings that will interfere with the GPS signals that the
WeatherStation instrument must receive.
Figure 1. Antennas
Courtesy of Northstar BNT, Acton, MA
Min. 1m

8
Tools & Materials
Antenna mount with standard marine 1"-14 threads and pass-through for cable
(see Figure 2)
Hardware to install the antenna mount
Extension tube (optional)
Pencil
Level
Safety goggles
Dust mask
Electric drill
Drill bits
Phillips screwdrivers
Plumber’s tape (optional)
Cutting pliers (some installations)
Wire strippers (some installations)
Electrical tape (some installations)
Converter (some installations)
Combiner (some installations)
Where to Purchase
Gemeco (USA) Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
email: [email protected]
Airmar EMEA Tel: [phone]
(Europe, Middle East, Africa) Fax: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
ratchet mountdeck mount
cable
passes
through
center
deck mount
of mount
cable
pass-
with extension tube
extension
with cable
pass-through
center pass-through side pass-through
through
Figure 2. Antenna mounts
Copyright © 2007 Airmar Technology Corp.

9
Installing
WARNING: Always wear safety goggles and a dust mask.
CAUTION: The blue metal plate and the blue film found in the wind channel of the
WeatherStation instrument are essential to its operation (see Figure 3). Be careful
not to scratch the plate, puncture the film, or damage them in any way.
CAUTION: Do not remove the waterproof connector(s) to ease cable routing. If
the cable must be cut and spliced, use Airmar’s splash-proof Junction Box No.
33-035 and follow the instructions provided. Cutting the cable or removing the
waterproof connector(s), except when using Airmar’s junction box, will void the
sensor warranty.
CAUTION: The WeatherStation instrument must be installed vertically—NOT
tilted to one side. If the WeatherStation instrument is tilted from the horizontal
plane, it will introduce an error in the compass reading.
CAUTION: Be sure the alignment tabs on the WeatherStation instrument point
forward toward the bow and parallel to the centerline of the boat. This is
necessary to accurately measure wind direction and vessel heading.
CAUTION: Do not tighten or align the WeatherStation instrument by rotating the
upper cap (see Figure 3). Turning may sever internal connections and void the
warranty. Grasp the lower housing below the blue metal plate. Hand-tighten only.
Figure 3. Wind channel
blue metal plate
waterproof film
wind channel
upper cap
lower housing
Copyright © 2008 Airmar Technology Corp.

10
1. Place the antenna mount at the selected location and mark the holes for the
screws (see Figure 2). Also, mark the hole in the center of the mount for the cable
to pass through. If you are using a ratchet mount, be sure you have purchased
an extension with a cable pass-through.
2. Position the antenna mount at a 90° angle to the deck. If necessary, use shims
to make the mounting surface level (see Figure 4).
WARNING: Always wear safety goggles and a dust mask.
3. Drill the holes for the mounting screws and the cable exit if necessary.
4. Using purchased screws, fasten the antenna mount in place.
5. Screw an extension tube onto the antenna mount if desired.
Figure 4. Installation
nut assembly
WeatherStation
extension tube
antenna mount
cable exit
alignment tabs
face forward
and parallel to
the keel (centerline)
of the vessel
wind channel
where air travels
through the sensor
(some installations)
(most installations)
Copyright © 2008 Airmar Technology Corp.

11
6. With the nut assembly on the cable near the WeatherStation connector, thread
the cable through the extension tube (if used), antenna mount, and the cable
exit. Allow several inches of cable topped by the connector above the nut
assembly (see Figure 5).
CAUTION: If you use a thread lock, use plumber’s tape. Do not use a liquid thread
lock as it may weaken the plastic, causing it to swell and crack.
7. Screw the nut assembly onto the top of the antenna mount/extension tube.
Hand-tighten only. Do not over tighten.
8. Remove the caution label from the WeatherStation instrument’s socket.
Remove the protective cover from the connector. (Save the cap to protect the
connector, when the WeatherStation instrument is removed.) Plug the 7-pin
connector into the WeatherStation instrument. The alignment key on the
connector fits into a notch in the base of the WeatherStation instrument.
9. Be sure the alignment tabs on the WeatherStation instrument are facing forward
and parallel to the keel (centerline) of the boat (see Figure 4). Slide the captive
nut upward and screw it onto the base of the WeatherStation instrument (see
Figure 5). Hand-tighten only. Do not over tighten. Be careful NOT to rotate the
WeatherStation instrument or loosen the nut assembly from the antenna mount/
extension tube. Double check to be sure the alignment tabs are still facing
forward.
Figure 5. Connector
WeatherStation
nut
captive
nut
alignment
key
assembly
connector
Copyright © 2008 Airmar Technology Corp.

12
Cable Routing & Connecting
Depending on the equipment that you will be using, route the WeatherStation
cable to a Converter, a Combiner, or directly to an NMEA 0183 display. You must
read the safety instructions below before going to the section that is appropriate
for your equipment.
WARNING: Always wear safety goggles and a dust mask.
WARNING: The power supply voltage must be 12 VDC (±3VDC).
WARNING: The power panel must have a 1 amp fast-blow fuse or circuit breaker.
CAUTION: Do not remove the waterproof connector(s) to ease cable routing. If
the cable must be cut and spliced, use Airmar’s splash-proof Junction Box No.
33-035 and follow the instructions provided. Cutting the cable or removing the
waterproof connector, except when using Airmar’s junction box, will void the
sensor warranty.
CAUTION: To reduce electrical interference, separate the cables from other
electrical wiring and the engine.
CAUTION: Be careful not to tear the cable jackets when passing them through
bulkheads and other parts of the boat. Use grommets to prevent chaffing.
CAUTION: Use a multimeter to check the polarity and the connections to the
12VDC power supply before applying power to the sensor.
CAUTION: Coil any excess cable(s) and secure it with a zip-tie to prevent damage.
Connecting to a Converter
The Converter allows the WeatherStation measurements to be displayed on a PC
by converting the data from NMEA 0183 to USB.
Figure 6. Converter installation
power
supply
PC
Copyright © 2007 Airmar Technology Corp.

13
Mounting Location of the Converter
1. Select a convenient, dry, mounting location for the water-resistant Converter, a
minimum of 1m (3') from the PC (see Figure 6).
2. Hold the Converter at the selected location and mark the position of the screw
holes. If the Converter will be mounted on a vertical surface, face the cables
downward to avoid water seeping into the box.
WARNING: Always wear safety goggles and a dust mask.
3. At the marked locations, drill the holes for the screws. Do not fasten the
Converter in place at this time.
WeatherStation Cable
Route the WeatherStation cable to the Converter. Do not connect the
WeatherStation cable or fasten it in place at this time.
USB Cable
Route the USB cable coming from the Converter into the USB port on the PC.
Do not connect the cable or fasten it in place at this time.
Power Cable
1. Route the power cable from the Converter to the power supply. Do not fasten
the power cable in place at this time.
2. Allowing an extra 25cm (10") for wiring ease, cut the cable to length.
3. Strip 60mm (2-1/2") of the outer jacket and foil shielding from the cut end of the cable.
4. Cut off the bare wire flush with the cable jacket.
5. Strip 10mm (3/8") of conductor insulation from the end of each colored wire.
6. Protect the cable’s foil shielding from causing a short by using heat-shrink
tubing around the jacket where the wires emerge from the cable. The tape must
overlap the wires a minimum of 6mm (1/4").
7. Connect the wires to the power supply [12VDC (±3VDC) @ 0.5 amp required].
See the color code below.
Red 12 VDC +
Black 12 VDC –/ground
Note: the Converter is powered by the USB port and the WeatherStation
instrument is powered by the power cable.
Completing the Installation
1. Fasten the Converter in place with the screws supplied.
2. Plug the WeatherStation cable into the Converter.
3. Plug the USB cable into the PC.
4. Fasten all the cables in place.
LED Indicator Light
The green LED indicator light will flash when the Converter is operating.
Installing the Software
Follow the instructions in the WeatherCaster™ Software Guide.

14
Connecting to a Combiner
The Combiner allows the WeatherStation data to be displayed simultaneously on
both an NMEA display and a PC. On the Combiner, the two auxiliary grommets
labeled AUX NMEA OUT can be used to connect additional devices capable of
displaying WeatherStation data (see Figure 7). All display devices must be NMEA
0183.
What does NMEA IN and NMEA OUT mean?
NMEA IN represents input for data flowing into an NMEA device. An IN device is
an NMEA listener. NMEA OUT signifies output for data flowing out of a device.
OUT devices are NMEA talkers. The Combiner label designates data flow as
viewed by the device itself. For example, the Combiner’s output should be
connected to a display’s input.
The output of any NMEA device (talker) may connect to the inputs of multiple
devices (listener). However, it is not permissible to connect the output of one
NMEA device to the output of another. If the need arises to provide data from the
outputs of two or more devices to the input of a given device, then a Combiner is
required.
CAUTION: Be sure to connect an NMEA talker to the NMEA IN terminal and
NMEA listeners to the NMEA OUT terminals.
CAUTION: When connecting NMEA devices to one another, the cable shield only
connects at ONE end of the cable, preferably at the device providing the NMEA
output.
power
supply
NMEA display
Airmar
or other sensor
Figure 7. Combiner installation
additional
display
additional
display
Weather
or additional
Smart™ Sensor
PC
sensor
Station
Copyright © 2007 Airmar Technology Corp.

15
Mounting Location of the Combiner
1. Select a convenient, dry, mounting location for the water-resistant Combiner, a
minimum of 1m (3') from the NMEA device and the PC.
2. Hold the Combiner at the selected location and mark the position of the screw
holes. Note—If the Combiner will be mounted on a vertical surface, face the
grommets to the sides to avoid water seeping into the box.
WARNING: Always wear safety goggles and a dust mask.
3. At the marked locations, drill the holes. Do not fasten the Combiner in place at
this time.
WeatherStation Cable
Route the WeatherStation cable to the Combiner. Do not connect the
WeatherStation cable or fasten it in place at this time.
USB Cable
Route the USB cable coming from the Combiner to the USB port on the PC.
Do not connect the cable or fasten it in place at this time.
NMEA Display/Additional Sensor Cable
1. Route the cable coming from the NMEA display/additional sensor to the
Combiner. Do not fasten the cable in place at this time.
2. Allowing an extra 25 cm (10") for wiring ease, cut the cable to length.
3. Remove the cover of the Combiner to expose the terminals inside
(see Figure 8).
Figure 8. Inside a Combiner
AIRMAR
WEA
THERSTA
TION
25-431-01
NMEA DISPLAY
ACTIVERESEARCHLTD2005
C
SHIELD
A/+ B/- A/+ B/ - + A/+
NMEAIN
NMEAOUT
POWER
NMEA
IN
SHIELD
NMEA IN
NMEAOUT
POWER
NMEA
IN
- +
B/-
B/-A/+B/-A/+
USB
050818-001 ACTIS
SHIELD
PWR
GND
DM
DP
NMEAMULTIPLEXER
power PC
cable cable
Copyright © 2007 Airmar Technology Corp.

16
4. Using a small Phillips screwdriver, puncture the grommet that corresponds to
NMEA Display on the cover (see Figure 7). Be careful not to damage the circuit
board.
5. Push approximately 100mm (4") of the cable through the grommet (see
Figure 9). To ease sliding, apply alcohol to the cable jacket.
6. Strip 60mm (2-1/2") of the outer jacket and foil shielding from the cut end of the
cable.
7. Strip 10 mm (3/8") of conductor insulation from the end of each colored wire.
8. Protect the cable’s foil shielding from causing a short by using heat-shrink
tubing around the jacket where the wires emerge from the cable. The tape must
overlap the wires a minimum of 6 mm (1/4").
9. From outside the Combiner, carefully pull the cable until only 13mm (1/2") of the
cable jacket remains inside.
Figure 9. Wiring an NMEA display to a Combiner
AIRMAR
WEATHERSTATION
25-431-01
NMEA DISPLAY
ACTIVERESEARCHLTD2005
C
SHIELD
A/+ B/- A/+ B/- - + A/+
NMEAIN
NMEAOUT
POWER
NMEA
IN
SHIELD
NMEA IN
NMEAOUT POWER
NMEA
IN
- +
B/-B/-A/+B/-A/+
USB
050818-001 ACTIS
SHIELD
PWR
GND
DM
DP
NMEAMULTIPLEXER
NMEA
display
cable
power PC
cable cable
Copyright © 2007 Airmar Technology Corp.

17
10.Connect each wire in turn into the designated NMEA Display terminal. Loosen
the screw, insert the stripped end of the wire into the square hole, and retighten
the screw. Be sure the stripped end of the wire is inserted up to its insulation
only. Do not include any insulation inside the terminal. Gently tug on the wire to
ensure that it is securely fastened. Repeat this process until all the wires are
connected. Refer to the owner’s manual that came with the display/sensor and
the wiring diagram below (see Figure 10).
Figure 10. Wiring diagram to connect an NMEA display
AIRMAR
WEATHERSTA
TION
25-431-01
NMEA DISPLAY
ACTIVERESEARCHLTD2005
C
SHIELD
A/+ B/- A/+ B/- - + A/+
NMEAIN
NMEAOUT
POWER
NMEA
IN
SHIELD
NMEA IN
NMEAOUT
POWER
NMEA
IN
- +
B/-B/-A/+B/-A/+
USB
050818-001 ACTIS
SHIELD
PWR
GND
DM
DP
NMEAMULTIPLEXER
SHIELD
NMEAOUT
POWER
- +
B/-A/+
NMEAIN
B/- A/+
See the NMEA display manual
for power and shield connections.
Note: Power is available from
the Combiner as shown by
the dashed lines.
Copyright © 2007 Airmar Technology Corp.

18
Auxiliary NMEA IN Grommet
Use the AUX NMEA IN grommet to connect an external NMEA 0183 sensor such
as: an Airmar Smart™ Sensor, an external GPS, an external compass, or other
sensor. An “IN” device will supply additional data to the WeatherStation
instrument.
The WeatherCaster software will automatically detect a Smart Sensor and display
the appropriate data. Airmar recommends installing the DST800V to receive water
depth, boat speed, and water temperature data. Other Smart Sensors can be
connected, provided that your NMEA display can read the sentence output and is
configured to display those values.
The AUX NMEA IN grommet can also be used to connect an external GPS. In
some cases, a GPS receiver can be plugged directly into an NMEA port on the
display, if it can repeat the input to the Combiner. This would leave the AUX
NMEA IN grommet on the Combiner free to connect an Airmar Smart Sensor.
To wire a device through the AUX NMEA IN grommet, use the NMEA IN terminals
on the printed circuit board (see Figure 11).
Figure 11. Wiring an external sensor to a Combiner
AIRMAR
WEATHERSTATION
25-431-01
NMEA DISPLAY
ACTIVERESEARCHLTD2005
C
SHIELD
A/+ B/- A/+ B/- - + A/+
NMEAIN
NMEAOUT
POWER
NMEA
IN
SHIELD
NMEA IN
NMEAOUT
POWER
NMEA
IN
- +
B/-B/-A/+B/-A/+
USB
050818-001 ACTIS
SHIELD
PWR
GND
DM
DP
NMEAMUL
TIPLEXER
external
sensor
cable
NMEA
display power PC
cable cable cable
Copyright © 2007 Airmar Technology Corp.

19
1. Route the cable coming from the external sensor to the Combiner. Do not fasten
the cable in place at this time.
2. Allowing an extra 25 cm (10") for wiring ease, cut the cable to length.
3. Remove the cover of the Combiner to expose the terminals inside (see
Figure 11). Using a small Phillips screwdriver, puncture the grommet that
corresponds to AUX NMEA IN on the cover (see Figure 7). Be careful not to
damage the circuit board.
4. Push approximately 100mm (4") of the cable through the grommet (see Figure 11).
5. Strip 60mm (2-1/2") of the outer jacket and foil shielding from the cut end of the
cable.
6. Strip 10 mm (3/8") of conductor insulation from the end of each colored wire.
7. Protect the cable’s foil shielding from causing a short by using heat-shrink
tubing around the jacket where the wires emerge from the cable. The tape must
overlap the wires a minimum of 6 mm (1/4").
8. From outside the Combiner, carefully pull the cable until only 13mm (1/2") of the
cable jacket remains inside.

20
9. Connect each wire in turn into the designated NMEA IN terminal. Loosen the
screw, insert the stripped end of the wire into the square hole and retighten the
screw. Be sure the stripped end of the wire is inserted up to its insulation only.
Do not include any insulation inside the terminal. Gently tug on the wire to
ensure that it is securely fastened. Repeat this process until all the wires are
connected. Refer to the owner’s manual that came with the sensor and the
wiring diagram below (see Figure 12).
AIRMAR
WEATHERSTA
TION
25-431-01
NMEA DISPLAY
ACTIVERESEARCHLTD2005
C
SHIELD
A/+ B/- A/+ B/- - + A/+
NMEAIN
NMEAOUT
POWER
NMEA
IN
SHIELD
NMEA IN
NMEAOUT
POWER
NMEA
IN
- +
B/-B/-A/+B/-A/+
USB
050818-001 ACTIS
SHIELD
PWR
GND
DM
DP
NMEAMULTIPLEXER
SHIELD
NMEAOUT
POWER
- +
B/-A/+
Figure 12. Wiring diagram to connect an external sensor
See the NMEA display manual
for power and shield connections.
Note: Power is available from
the Combiner as shown by
the dashed lines.
Copyright © 2007 Airmar Technology Corp.